The sexy pharmacist, and rising model, makes her MAXIM cover debut… and health care has never looked better…
Magnificent cover, Stephanie. How does it feel to make your MAXIM debut?
It’s quite an honour! I’m beyond humbled and very excited. This was definitely a dream of mine.
Tell us about this photo shoot.
It was in a mansion, with killer views, in the Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles. We actually did this a few days after my birthday in January – my favourite part of the day was being able to try on so many outfits and play around with what we liked.
Well, happy birthday, you look gorgeous. When do you feel you sexy?
Thank you! I feel like I’m at my sexiest when I’m being full-heartedly and unapologetically myself – being in the moment, smiling, laughing out loud… I also feel sexy throwing on a great fitting pair of jeans!
What’s your best asset?
Besides my blue eyes, I would say my brain — it’s got me to graduating with my doctorate at 23 years old.
What else would people be most surprised to know about you?
I’m a nerd and I love a good documentary. I’m also an introvert and love spending time by myself.
Tell us a bit more about yourself.
Well, I grew up in Boston, Massachusetts in the United States, as an only child. I went to pharmacy school at Northeastern University and graduated with my Doctor of Pharmacy. I ended up moving west, to Las Vegas, about two years ago and now I call it home. While going through a break up, I adopted a dog and he is now the only man in my life. His name is Chance.
Nice work! So, when you’re not posing for MAXIM what do you do?
I’m hiking in Red Rock Canyon, just outside of Las Vegas, and I just started teaching myself black jack and the Italian language during quarantine. I love trying new wines and cooking — I make my grandmother’s delicious secret recipe chicken parmigiana. I also volunteer at the Animal Foundation as a dog walker and at the Good Samaritan handing out lunches to the homeless.
Wow, versatility! What made you want to become a pharmacist?
Well, my mum was a visiting nurse for sick children and growing up I would spend a lot of time going with her to their homes. So, I always knew I wanted to pursue something in the health care field.
What’s the hottest thing about being a pharmacist?
I think being able to dress up in a lab coat and throw on some glasses is pretty hot.
How did you get into modelling?
I actually got into modelling during COVID-19. I was bored sitting at home and saw the MAXIM US Cover Girl Competition, so I signed up for it. My friend recommended I take professional photos for my profile and I had the best experience – fell in love with it. I ended up coming sixth in the competition and I’m still enjoying and pursuing modelling and the opportunities that may come from it.
Has it been tough coping with all things COVID-19 in the United States?
Being a pharmacist we have definitely been extremely busy with COVID-19. We do COVID-19 testing at my job, so it has really changed the dynamic. The toughest time for me was actually getting the coronavirus and having to quarantine by myself over the Christmas.
Well, that sucks. But good to hear you recovered! What’s the first thing you will do once all travel restrictions are lifted?
First and foremost I’ll visit my friends and family in Boston. I’d also love to travel to Australia and swim with the great white sharks in Port Lincoln. I have never been to Australia before but I would love to go.
What else do you know about our fine country?
I know that the beautiful Great Barrier Reef is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. As well as your country being beautiful you also have many gorgeous men with sexy accents.
What can a discerning gentleman do to try and win you over?
I really like a man who is consistent and knows what he wants. A good morning text is always a winner. I really like the simple, small things.
Describe your perfect date?
Going to a wine tasting or cooking class and then enjoying a nice cocktail.
What have you learnt about men over the years?
If men say it they actually mean it! If a guy says he isn’t really looking for a relationship — he isn’t! Some of us try to stick around to change that.
What’s one thing men should always remember about women?
It goes a long way just to know you thought of us in an unexpected moment.
What’s the weirdest comment you’ve received on your social media?
“I would pay my life just to spend a few minutes with you.”
What message do you have for the haters and social media trolls out there?
Jealousy is just love and hate at the same time.
What can you beat anyone at?
Spelling – I was the fourth grade spelling bee champion!
Finish this sentence: Public nudity is…
Sexy in the right setting.
Finally, what is your life motto?
Be comfortable in your own skin. Be the best you can be. Embrace your flaws. Own it, rock it. Be weird, be awkward, be sexy… be whatever “it” is. Make your dreams a reality. Work for it, believe in yourself and, most importantly, be kind. ■
Status Update
NAME: Stephanie Pavilonis
BORN: January 6
HOMETOWN: Boston, Massachusetts USA
CURRENTLY LIVES: Las Vegas, Nevada USA
FIVE-WORD SELF-DESCRIPTION: “Fun-loving, loyal, motivated, shy (at first) and thoughtful.”
HIDDEN TALENT: “Pole dancing – I’ve been taking lessons for a few years – it’s a lot harder than it looks!”
WORST HABIT: “Being a procrastinator.”
PET PEEVE: “When people close the elevator door just as they see you coming.”
GO-TO DRINK: “A spicy margarita.”
HANGOVER CURE: “Sleeping-in and some great breakfast food – can’t go wrong with pancakes, eggs and bacon.
INSTAGRAM: @stephaniemarie1686
Photographed by ARTHUR ST JOHN (IG: @ARTHURSTJOHN)
Interview by SANTI PINTADO (IG: @SPINTADO)
Hair & make-up by TAYLOR JAZZ (IG: @TAYLOR_JAZZ)
Location: SPECIAL THANKS TO JOSE NAZAR AT SKYLINE, LOS ANGELES USA